Work

On-line intervention study of WHO Caregiver Skills Training program for children with neurodevelopmental disorders in Brazil

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The WHO Caregiver Skills Training (WHO CST) program is designed to train caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, improving access to interventions in areas where professional resources are scarce. This study assesses the effectiveness of the WHO-CST online program in Brazil, focusing on symptom improvement in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). METHODOLOGY: This open clinical trial included 37 caregivers who participated in nine on-line sessions. The primary outcome measured was the decrease in scores on the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC), along with evaluations of target behaviors, like reduction of disruptive behaviors, improvement in communication, and enhancements in play, and the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale. RESULTS: Of the enrolled participants, 28 caregivers completed the training. The results showed a substantial 14% reduction in baseline ATEC scores (p < 0.01), significant improvements in CGI scores (p < 0.01), and positive changes in 77% of the targeted behaviors after the training. CONCLUSION: The WHO CST online program is associated with reduced symptoms of autism in children with neurodevelopmental disorders in Brazil, as shown by this open clinical trial. These findings highlight the value of online interventions in enhancing caregiver capabilities and improving child outcomes in resource-limited settings.

Source: Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy

DOI: 10.47626/2237-6089-2024-0891